Quokka

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Quokka Facts

• Firstly, the Quokka remains a unique animal in the genus Setonix and sits alone in that genus. This small marsupial also remains renowned for its distinctive natural expression.
• Secondly, the IUCN lists the diminutive creature as Vulnerable. The creature represented one of the first mammals to be seen by Europeans, being spotted and described as early as 1658.
• Only a few scattered concentrations of Quokka seem to exist within its natural habitat range. It also remains undetermined if this animal once possessed a more extensive area of habitation.
• Finally, this marsupial possesses an extremely docile and outgoing demeanor. Unlike nearly all other wild animals, individuals of this species in the wild openly approach humans when encountered.

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Source: http://huff.to/1GKa6rz Photographer: Amanda DeCerce

Quokka Physical Description

The Quokka attains a size roughly equal to that of many species of domestic feline. Its body measures as much as 21 in (54 cm) in length.

The tail of this species grows rather short for a macropod and only averages about 12 in (30 cm) long. In addition, exceptional individuals weigh up to 11 lb (5 kg), though most average perhaps half of that.

The overall build of the Quokka develops relatively stocky. The head stays generally broad, and the ears appear rounded in shape. Its fur also grows course and generally dark brown to light brown.

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Mammalia
• Order: Diprotodontia
• Family: Macropodidae
• Genus: Setonix
• Species: S. brachyurus

Quokka Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

The few small populations of the amazing Quokka we know of remain primarily confined to several small islands off the coast of Western Australia.

Only one colony is known to exist on the mainland. Also, this small population of Quokka dwells within the confines of Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve.

Though fully capable of climbing trees, the animal prefers to inhabit areas of dense ground cover. This it uses for protection from predators.

This remarkable animal remains primarily nocturnal by nature. It evolved as herbivorous in nature and feeds predominantly on endemic flower species.

Combined with the highly limited territorial range, the primary threat to its existence comes from introduced predator species. These primarily include cats, dogs, and foxes.

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